The legendary mellow groove masterpiece 'Rhythm of Life', the one and only solo album released in 1977 by James Mason, returns to the world anew with a fresh pulse!
'JAMES MASON REMIXES,' a vinyl-only EP featuring remixes of tracks from James Mason's 'Rhythm of Life' by DJ Mitsu the Beats (Jazzy Sport / GAGLE), Dego (2000black), and Yukari BB (Jazzy Sport), will be released on Jazzy Sport Productions and distributed exclusively by TOYOKASEI.
James Mason, best known as the guitarist for Roy Ayers Ubiquity during their golden era in the early 1970s, and as the creator of the timeless rare groove classic 'Rhythm of Life', continues to be revered across genres and generations as a true living legend.
With a solo concert in Japan scheduled for July 2025 and an appearance at the 'We Out Here Festival' in the UK this August, attention is once again turning to James Mason's legacy. The 'JAMES MASON REMIXES' EP brings new life to his classic tracks through the fresh interpretations of three acclaimed artists.
Side A opens with a remix of the floor classic 'Free'-a percussion-driven, groove-heavy track celebrated in jazz, rare groove, and post-loft/deep house scenes, and notably covered by Attica Blues on Mo' Wax in 1997. Dego's 'Free - 2000black Remix' injects jazzy, urban 2000black-style vibes. Also featured is Yukari BB's 'Good Thing - Yukari BB Remix,' a hip-hop-flavored, synth-bass-driven reconstruction that amplifies the heartwarming soul of the original.
Side B features DJ Mitsu the Beats, who continues a prolific 2025 with numerous releases and collaborations. His 'Free - DJ Mitsu the Beats Remix' offers a percussive, groove-filled interpretation adorned with warm electric piano. 'Mbewe - DJ Mitsu the Beats Remix' revives the urban mellow original with a mellow funk-infused hip-hop groove.
Mastered by DJ Mitsu the Beats, this DJ-friendly 45rpm 12-inch includes four tracks in total. The release comes housed in a full-color jacket designed by die (Jazzy Sport), complete with an obi strip inspired by the original album, and includes an exclusive James Mason illustration poster by artist mat, known for his work with 2000black.
LISTEN: https://youtu. Be/xSNWwzYpAos
Tracklist:
Side A
01. Free - 2000black Remix
02. Good Thing - Yukari BB Remix
Side B
01. Free - DJ Mitsu the Beats Remix
02. Mbewe - DJ Mitsu the Beats Remix
